Changing out reference cables during the insertion loss and return loss testing process to accommodate new DUT types can cause downtime for a manufacturing line and drastically reduce the efficiency of the cable production process.

With single channel DUTs and reference cables, the issue may seem inconsequential. However, in the modern fibre production line every minute counts; any method that can speed up time per test, minimise the time between tests, and prevent downtime are ways to make your cables more profitable.

[caption id="attachment_5069" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Figure 1: An OP940 insertion and return loss meter with multiple reference cables: MTP, LC Duplex, SC, and FC connectors.[/caption]

One way to minimise this downtime is to connect multiple different reference cables to your multi-channel insertion loss and return loss test set in advance.

Having reference cables that match the different connector types you commonly test or that will be tested that day at that test station will minimise the time it takes to start testing new DUT types.

Additionally, it allows connector-level insertion loss testing for many types of hybrid cables without a complicated test setup if you have a reference cable that matches each.

Ideally, the setup includes enough channels to accommodate the different reference cable types at once, as shown in Figure 1. Discuss with your sales engineer your testing needs and they can recommend an ideal test setup and channel count.

[caption id="attachment_5068" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Figure 2: Connector end-faces before (top) and after (bottom) cleaning.[/caption]

Finally, having reference cables that are only disconnected from time to time means that you have more repeatable IL/RL results and you can prevent damage to high quality reference cables and the interfaces to the test equipment.

This will reduce overall downtime and cost associated with troubleshooting and repairing the damage to those connections.

For further information, application support, demo or quotation requests  please contact us on 01582 764334 or click here to email.

Lambda Photometrics is a leading UK Distributor of Characterisation, Measurement and Analysis solutions with particular expertise in Electronic/Scientific and Analytical Instrumentation, Laser and Light based products, Optics, Electro-optic Testing, Spectroscopy, Machine Vision, Optical Metrology, Fibre Optics and Microscopy.